Bin 152
Staff Pick
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There is beauty in simplicity. Bin 152 is essentially a wine and cheese bar. Yet the offerings are anything but simple. Cosmopolitan husband-and-wife team Patrick and Fanny Panella (who have since opened the inimitable restaurant Chez Nous) are fanatical about their selections. Patrick, who once owned a wine bar in San Francisco, serves only wines that excite his palate. Fanny, who is French, is very particular about her cheeses. Bin 152 is therefore an extension of the Panellas and their combined F&B experience in New York, San Francisco, Paris, and Nice. You feel as if you’re walking into their personal hangout — artistic, comfortable, dimly lit, vibrant, chic but approachable. It’s the perfect spot to sip cava and nibble on triple cream fromage served with thinly sliced, fresh baked baguettes before heading to dinner or a show. Or to enjoy a late-night drink to wind down your evening. Or to spend a rainy late afternoon retreat sharing a bottle of wine and charcuterie board with friends. Don’t be intimidated by the formidable wine list or cheese menu. Patrick or Fanny will help steer you towards marvelous choices. You might wind up skipping dinner altogether. — Allston McCrady Dish (Winter 2015)